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How to perform efficient Pipetting with difficult liquids


In most labs where pipetting operations are regularly conducted, certain analysis and operations involve challenging liquids. These liquids may be viscous, light-sensitive, or possess fluorescent properties. It is also likely that the operations may involve handling of fluids under strict conditions or be corrosive or dangerous if it meets skin or other surfaces.

In such cases, pipetting becomes a challenge. Nevertheless, it is possible with due care and proper preparation.


Tips to pipette fluids of varying density and samples that require high precision results

If the density of a liquid is very low, as in the case of PCR reagents, pipetting can be performed efficiently with narrow orifice tips. Along with an extended tip support, the addition of an extra narrow tip will improve the reproducibility of the results. Standard tips of 10uL will work fine with liquids that have densities similar to that of water.

In certain lab operations, high precision and reproducibility of results becomes essential. In these cases, top accuracy must be maintained. Low retention tips become essential for such operations, as these allow maximum fluid dissipation. Low retention tips usually contain plastic polymers inside the tips, which encourages a smooth flow. The same tips can also be used when working with sensitive or expensive fluids in operations that require minimum wastage or retention of samples.

Pipetting tips for samples under strict aseptic conditions and light-sensitive substances

Individually wrapped tips are highly recommended for operations that involve samples under strict aseptic conditions. Sterile pipette tips such as these are less prone to contamination and will ensure sterility of the sample during the pipetting phase. This will also improve the performance level and make sure the results are accurate.

Certain experiments and lab operations must be conducted on fluorescent and light sensitive substances. In such cases, it is important to take due care during pipetting phase to ensure accurate results. The results should also be perfectly reproducible for repeated operations in the same operating conditions. For light-sensitive samples, protection of the sample from light can be ensured by wrapping the samples in aluminum foil to protect it from the external light rays.

Black microcentrifuge tubes are also a practical choice when the operation involves photo-sensitive or fluorescent substances. These tubes are different from the typical amber tinted tubes, since they are completely opaque. Hence, they will not interfere with the light-sensitive samples and enable them to retain their original integrity during the process.

Contact FirstSource Laboratory Solutions if you are looking for Fluid Handling instruments, Analytical, Filtration, Sterilization or any other lab setup equipment’s.

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